Destination: Success Set realistic goals that will help you achieve your dreams.

Some entrepreneurs achieve whatever they set their sights on, while others fail miserably. Does one have a more exciting product, a better marketing plan, more working capital? Sometimes. But it's more likely that entrepreneurs who succeed know how to set smart business goals.

J. J. Stupp regularly set goals for TableTalk, her St. Louis-based business which produces decks of cards to inspire conversation on various topics, from sports or science to the Bible. Each card presents a fascinating fact and poses an open-ended question to stimulate conversation. She sells her cards in 2,500 retail outlets across the country.

"Goals are vital to the work plan of any small business," says Stupp. "Writing down short-term and long-term goals for my business helps me stay focused. That's really important when I'm involved with multiple projects."